Zygomatic bones
To read about other bones of the head and neck, use the links on the left-side of this page.
There are two zygomatic bones, which are also known by other names including Zygoma, Malar Bones, and (non-medically) as cheek bones. These are among the facial bones of the head.
Location:
The zygomatic bones are also known as the cheek bone because they form the prominent part of the cheeks (on both sides of the front of the face). The zygomatic bones also form part of the orbits (commonly known as "eye sockets").
Function(s):
The zygomatic bones form the bottom of the orbitals (eye sockets) and also the nasal cavities, and the roof of the mouth.
See notes about, and labelled diagrams of, all human cranial and facial bones on one page.
More about Bones and the Skeletal System:
This website includes many pages about bones and the skeletal system. The following pages may be of interest. These also link to further pages about related topics such as specific types of fractures, bone diseases and so on.
- Structures and Functions of Bones (an overview about the Skeletal System)
- Types of Bones, such as long bones, short bones, flat bones, etc.
- Bone Markings and Features on Bones of the Human Body
- Types of Joints, such as immoveable, slightly moveable and freely moveable joints
- Diagram of the Human Skeleton
- Overview of types of Conditions and Disorders of the Skeletal System
For further information see also our pages of books about orthopaedics.
